Reflection Walk

Here is your challenge today. Before we begin, you must follow the rules. Allow your self 10 to 15 minuets to accept this challenge and proceed. Once you begin, you may not talk to anyone, even if someone says something to you, or asks you a question. All cell phones, pagers, and any other electronics must be turned off. Ok, you are ready now? Pick a path, trail, sidewalk, parking lot, street, or subway and begin your walk. You can only look with your eyes, and listen with your ears. All the things you see, will be examined later. No words, not one peep out of your mouth. I'm watching you, or actually someone above is watching you. Feel your thoughts wonder, and absorb the sounds of your journey. Remember not one word, even if you pass peers, friends, pets, strangers, you must focus on your self and thoughts. Look around you and see the elements, feel the air in your body. Now head back to where you started, and sit down. Find your notebook, paper, or journal, and tell me what you experienced. What did you notice on your 10 to 15 minuet walk? How did you feel when you saw people but could not respond? What did you think about? How do you feel now? This reflection walk I use in my treatment groups, 1:1's, and incarceration groups. Self has the power to reflect on anything, and control any thought, at any time. When I go into incarceration settings I use this walk as a way to help the inmates stay in their health, and stay in the moment. I have been told by many inmates that this walk is something they practice daily by their self or with a group of friends as they walk the yard. Can you imagine the discipline it must take not to talk to anyone on this reflection walk in this setting? Well, that is the key. Separate self from others while learning to stay in the moment, and appreciate the sounds, or sights no matter where you are. Your higher power is watching over you. This reflection walk is implemented with at risk teens in the jails that I go to. We use the gym or sometimes even the tiers to teach self how to concentrate and focus on self. In treatment settings, this reflection walk is a wonderful tool to help clients control their urges and cravings. I have been told that when on these walks with my groups that some clients actually think about running away, but soon are able to control their thoughts and begin to appreciate their reflections. The client is able to let the thoughts out while walking, and journal after the walk is over. The client will then present to the group what they experienced. Reflection walks are important for self, regardless if you have or do not have a addiction. This time will give you the opportunity to reflect on your stress, and let it go. Remember follow the rules, challenge your self to listen and not talk. Journal your thoughts after the walk. Stay in your health, stay in the moment.